OKI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries have signed a contract to supply towed passive sonar systems and related equipment for the Australian government’s next-generation general-purpose frigates. This contract covers the first three of the eleven frigates Australia plans to acquire.
In August, the Australian government selected the “FY2024-model destroyer”—an enhanced version of Japan’s *Mogami*-class destroyer—for its next-generation general-purpose frigate program. OKI’s towed passive sonar systems are used on these vessels; the company’s proven track record with the *Mogami* class led to this supply contract for Australia. This marks OKI’s first overseas defense equipment transfer project.
For over 90 years, OKI has been engaged in the technological development of underwater acoustics, designing and manufacturing products such as underwater acoustic sensors, primarily for the defense sector. The company handles everything from design to maintenance for sonar systems used by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Furthermore, under its “Management Plan 2031,” OKI has committed to focusing on and strengthening its presence in the defense and maritime sectors—areas identified as key to the government’s growth strategy. To meet rising defense demand, the company is expanding its production capacity and reinforcing its overhaul capabilities.
A towed passive sonar system detects underwater targets, such as submarines, by receiving acoustic signals via a sensor towed behind the vessel.

※Translating Japanese articles into English with AI